Treatment Week - December 20th

Forever God is with us, Forever God is strong, Forever God is Faithful....Forever.

My hope is that you had a very blessed and meaningful Christmas and you were able to celebrate the gift of time with your loved ones. That is what matters most!

I had chemo this past Monday, December 20th. All went well. I didn't feel great on Thursday, but I wasn't nearly as sick as I had been with past treatments. What a great Christmas gift that was! I have a MRI scheduled this coming Wednesday, December 29th. It's a safe bet to say, I am very anxious to find out what's going on in this ol' head of mine. I'm fairly confident...nothing is!! ;-D

My life has been and continues to be blessed by your constant prayers. Keep the peace my friends and I will blog when I get the MRI results are in.

Much love and keeping you all in my prayers!

+Sandy

Update...

I live with open eyes and an open heart to fully experience the goodness of the Lord.

My last chemo treatment on November 22nd was uneventful. My blood counts were just okay. Didn't feel well on Thanksgiving Day, but there will be many more Thanksgiving Days to feel well. I bounced back as I always do and for that I am thankful.

For the last week or so I've been experiencing hives again. Not quite sure what that's all about, but I will discuss with my doctor on my next visit which is Monday, December 20th. I'm praying this is not a repeat from last March and the fiasco that was. Although this morning, they seem to be better. Who knows...I guess I'm just a medical mystery!

My next chemo treatment is Monday, December 20th. Let's pray my 'sick day' will be before Christmas! That would be a wonderful present! My next MRI should be during the first week of January and I am anxiously looking forward to good news.....you know me...always the optimist!

Take time to feel the hope and peace of this miraculous season.

Stay warm!
+Sandy

11/17/2010 Update

I find God's peace amid the chaos! HE is raising me up to face the challenge.

I apologize for not updating my blog in a while. There hasn't been much going on lately...'health-wise' that is. Most days I am feeling very well!

I saw my oncologist on Nov. 8th, everything is going okay. My blood counts were coming back up from treatment on 10/25. My next chemo treatment will be on Monday, Nov 22.... just in time for Thanksgiving! My history indicates unfortunately that I will probably be sick on Thanksgiving Day...bummer. However I am undeniably thankful that I will see another Thanksgiving Day!!!

As I blogged before, my veins are becoming difficult to access by IV, so I had a 'port' put in on Wednesday, 11/10 to make it easier in the long run for blood draws and chemotherapy. It's been a week and I am still pretty sore from the procedure. The port was put in just below the collar bone but above my chest on my right side, so I can't raise my arm above my head, nor can I lift anything for about a month. Anyone who knows me, knows that's a difficult order for me to follow....but I'm doing the best I can! Fortunately, I will have had 12 days to heal before it will be used for my next treatment.

I will blog after my treatment next week. Thank you for your continued prayers. Get out and enjoy this wonderful fall weather....I certainly am!

With God, all things are possible. Matthew 19:26

+Peace
Sandy

Happy Anniversary to me!!

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

One year ago today, I was diagnosed with a 'worrisome' brain tumor. One year ago this Wednesday, I had a craniotomy to remove the 1.6cm tumor. It was then determined to be cancer. I remember this life-changing week like it was yesterday. But...this year has flown by and look how far we've come! I am healthy, I am strong and I am determined.

You all have inspired me to stand faithful, hopeful and to never give up....and I have no intention of giving up.
Together, everyone, our prayers are making a difference. Thank you for your faithfulness in traveling this journey with me. We have so much more life to live and to give.

"The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you".

+Peace,
Sandy

10/25...A treatment week

I envision us healthy and whole.

I saw Dr. Hu on Monday, 10/25. I briefed him on my visit to Duke and he was very happy to hear their thoughts and future plans for me. My blood counts were on the low side this time, so my chemo dose was the 10% less than the norm in hopes to keep them from plummeting too low. As usual, had the Neulasta shot on Tuesday. I was feeling good until Thursday, which was 2 days after chemo as par for the course, then unfortunately I didn't feel so great. Today, however I'm feeling much better.

This was my 8th month of treatment. The nurses had a difficult time with the IV....3 different nurses, 6 different sticks. One word to describe it....YOW-OUCH!!! My veins are becoming tough, apparently that happens the longer one is on chemo, and more difficult to get a good IV insertion. Painful for both them and me! They certainly feel bad not being able to get the IV in and I feel bad for them because they feel bad! Since I will continue to have blood draws every 2 weeks, chemo every 3-3 1/2 weeks and MRI's with dye every 6 weeks, the best option will be for me to have a port put in. I was trying to avoid having to do that, but I don't think I have a choice. That procedure will be scheduled sometime within the next 2 weeks or so. Ya know, we just do what we have to do and it will be fine.

The human mind plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps. Proverbs 16:9

Have a wonderful weekend.
+Peace
Sandy

Trip to Duke - Fabulous!!

I am grateful for the experiences that have brought me to this moment.

Our trip to the Duke Brain Tumor Center was nothing less than very informative, encouraging and motivating. We came away from there with so much HOPE, and are so energized as we continue the pursuit to beat this cancer. Friends, we WILL beat this!!

My first appointment was for a MRI Thursday evening, October 14th. I'm so getting used to that routine...I think I don't even hear the machine's loud claps, beeps and horns anymore. All I hear is my conversation with God as we talk about life.

My appointment with the Brain Tumor Center doctors was Friday morning. We met with Dr. Ashley Sumrall and Dr. Annik Desjardins, who will be my team of doctors and also met with my contacts on the nursing and social work staff. They are all awesome. Obviously, brain tumors is their area of expertise, but what struck me was their extensive knowledge, encouragement, compassion and committment that they are with patients every step of the way in whatever capacity they need to be. They shared the results of my MRI....no tumor growth..at all...anywhere. Oh one other thing...the 'nodule' or 'enhancement' that exists in the tumor site that was thought to be resistant tumor or scar tissue...the Duke doctors believe that is a blood vessel. Are prayers working?...To that I answer "Amen"!! Oh ya!

They were very complimentary of the St. John's staff who have been caring for me up to this point. They expressed how well the surgery was performed when the tumor was removed, the successful radiation therapys and how well my ongoing chemotherapy treatments have gone. Their comments validated for me that the right things have been happening because it's working. St. John's will continue to administer my treatment under the direction of my doctors at Duke. I will only need to travel to Duke about every 12 weeks.

The Duke doctors also shared some statistical data with us that is truly awesome. Listen to this....they have 172 GBM patients that are long term survivors...long term meaning 5 years or greater. How about that for exciting statistics? Even more exciting is what they told me next. Because of the tumor size and location, the successful surgery to remove the tumor, my response to treatment, my good health, positive outlook and my strong faith, I too have the makings of being in the category of a long term survivor. How about that for exciting news? I absolutely believe the Brain Tumor Center motto is accurate...At Duke, there is HOPE! I couldn't be more hopeful!

With all that great news, here's what's next:
* Continue the same chemotherapy regimen through February 2011 resulting in a full year of treatment.
* MRI scans every 6 weeks.
* PET scan on January 10, 2011.
* Appointment to see Dr. Desjardins at Duke on January 10, 2011.
* If scans indicate no tumor growth, I will stop chemotherapy in February and we will monitor with MRI scans. If growth exists, I will continue 6 more months of chemo and then determine course of action from there.

Believe it or not, I'm coming up to my 1 year anniversary of diagnosis. It has been quite a journey. I have learned so much about myself, about what's important, about how to not take anything for granted, especially to not take for granted that I've been given another day to enjoy. I've learned (or maybe still learning) what to worry about, what not to worry about, and that I couldn't have made it this far without all of your prayers and all of the love and support that surrounds me. I learned that God didn't inflict me with this disease, it just happened. But because of this, I learned that God is carrying me and giving me the strength to live every day and to trust HIM with my life. Because He's given me my life.

Thank you for praying and sharing this year with me. And God willing, we will have many more to share.

+Peace,
Sandy

Oh My Goodness...It's been a month since my last post?

The healing power of God and the Spirit renews me.

Yikes...I didn't realize it has been so long since I last posted on my blog. My apologies to my followers. Here is what's been going on in my world...

My last chemotherapy was Thursday afternoon, September 23rd. All of my blood counts looked good enough to get the full dose of Carboplatin. As usual, I went home and went to bed after treatment. On Friday I was feeling pretty good, went to work and then went out to get a Neulasta shot. I was feeling good until Saturday evening, when the bottom fell out. It seemed like all of sudden exhaustion over took me and I began to feel nauseous and just ached all over. I went to bed about 7pm Saturday night, didn't get out of bed on Sunday, didn't get out of bed on Monday, tried to get out of bed on Tuesday. I got up Tuesday morning thinking if I just took a shower, I would feel better. Let that living water pour out it's therapy over me. I went to work, stayed for about 10 minutes, came home and went back to bed. By early afternoon, thankfully, I began to feel somewhat better. I got up, sat outside and soaked up the suns warmth. It felt amazing and helped tremendously. Thank God for sunny autumn days!!

I saw Dr. Stroud, my radiation oncologist, on Thursday, September 30th. He was very pleased with my last MRI results. Will see him in 6 months!

Now that I am back feeling great again and enjoying this fabulous autumn weather, I am so excited about my upcoming visit to Duke!

All of my scans, medical records, physician notes,etc. have been sent to the Brain Tumor Center at Duke University in Durham, NC and we leave tomorrow (Wednesday, October 13th). I have a MRI scheduled for Thursday and my treatment consultation is on Friday. The only thing I know for sure is that they will direct and colaborate with my doctors at St. John's for treatment, although I'm unsure as to how often I will have to travel to North Carolina for follow-ups. I imagine I will be overloaded with information from the neuro-oncologists at Duke and I will share that with you when I return.

I am so excited and blessed for the opportunity to continue my healing journey as I partner with the doctors at Duke and at St. John's. Please pray that God will guide these doctors' skillful hands and creative minds. Your prayers continue to give me strength, thank you.

Trust God!

+ Unshakable peace to you,
Sandy

The MRI Results are in.....

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you. He will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22

It has been quite a couple of weeks. The patient waiting, the anxious waiting, the not thinking about it waiting, the being consumed by thinking about it waiting....oh brother I hate waiting. However, before I tell you the results...I have to tell you the story that has brought me to this point. Read on and you'll see why it's been quite a couple of weeks!

It all started on Tuesday, August 31st....MRI at 7:00am at the Cancer Center. No big deal, been through this many times before, laid on the table, head in the MRI machine. If you've had an MRI before you know the loud noises (even with earplugs..omg) that this machine puts out. Came out for an IV of dye, back in again for a few more minutes and then finally finished and a major headache after forty-five minutes. I was hoping to get the technician to give me a hint of what he thought the images looked like...but couldn't get him to budge...oh darn!

My appointment with Dr. Hu (medical oncologist) was not until Thursday, Sept 9th...how in the world am I going to be able to wait that long. As it turns out, I was able to find out sooner. My sister, Tracy, is a CRNA at St. John's and she knows my surgeon and works with him quite often. After my test, I texted Tracy and asked her to call him to see if he could pull the scan and/or results and have him tell her the results. He is a very good and very busy doctor and was unable to find anything out until Thursday, 9/2. When he viewed and read the scans, he thought he saw some change in the nodule that is at the tumor site. (This nodule, which has been there since my original surgery, is either scar tissue or resistant tumor, without surgery we are unsure which.) He considers this change in the nodule as tumor regrowth.

Oh my goodness....you can't imagine my disappointment. It was terrible waiting for the results, but now even more terrible I'm thinking after 10 months of hard fought battle, the tumor has started to grow....what the hell! We went to the Lake of the Ozarks for a long, relaxing weekend, but I can't say it wasn't difficult and not without tears. All I could think of as I looked around was that I am so thankful for the last 10 months but oh my gosh, I want more time; selfishly I want MORE TIME....PLEASE!!.

I have to tell you friends, it took me several days to regroup and refocus myself for the continued fight. But I assure you...the fight continues.

Tuesday, September 7th, I called St. John's to get copies on CD of my MRI's and CT Scans. I got on the brain tumor center at Duke University website and referred myself as a patient. Within 45 minutes, a doctor called me back, asked me if I wanted to come to Duke, of course I told him 'yes'. He said okay and told me what I needed to do. I picked up my CD of scans and my pathology slides and had them at FedEx by 4:15 that day. Once they have looked at everything, the doctor will call me back and we'll see where that goes. They are doing some awesome stuff at Duke. Most importantly, the doctor's message is "there is hope!"

The story continues....
Thursday, September 9th, I have blood work and see my oncologist. He comes into the room and says, "The MRI results look good, there is no evidence of recurrent or residual tumor growth." I said "OH MY GOSH, WHAT?" "But the surgeon said there is regrowth!" He shows me the image results documented from the radiologist and circles and underlines the results. I can't flippin' believe it...I was speechless. UN-BE-LIEV-ABLE!! My blood work came back looking good, my platelets are back up and my white cell count is up. Since I am doing well with the chemo drug, I can continue with chemo therapy. Of course we need to keep our heads about us and remain cautiously optimistic, but it feels great to get good news.

To the surgeon's credit, he may not have had my last scan to compare to this one, there probably are differences in monitor resolution, there could be many reasons for the misinterpretation of the results. He is a great guy and a great surgeon and I would highly recommend him and his staff.

I'm sure you are asking, "What about Duke?" Well, they are supposed to be reviewing what I sent and I am anxiously waiting for a call back. I am very interested in speaking with them and hearing what they have to offer and how soon I could get an appointment. What it so awesome is that I know I have options.

Well, that is the story today. Please continue the heartfelt prayers, they are most definitely being answered. We are on the road to good things happening!!

Patience is a virtue!

+Peace,
Sandy

MRI Today

I am grateful for simply being.

I had my MRI this morning at 7am......Anxiously awaiting the results....stay tuned!!
Please keep praying everyone.

Come to me, all that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. --Matthew 11:28

+Peace,
Sandy

Last Treatment!!!

Do not live your life looking in your rear view mirror...live for each day, basking in the wonderment and possibilities God has opened to you. What a way to live!

Wow...has time flown or what? Six chemotherapy treatments, too many blood tests to count on all my fingers and toes, too many needle sticks, doctor visits and co-pays to count as well....but here I am...still thankful for everyday that God has blessed me with waking up and living my life and enjoying my family and friends. What more can I ask for? I think this is simply what it's all about, I am so blessed.

Monday, August 23, 2010...last chemotherapy treatment...Waahoooo!! Even more amazing, no major adverse reactions...well at least by comparison to the Temodar fiascoes...in January, February and March...that was a major yikes! That was not a pleasant ride, by any stretch of the imagination. I have come through this last 5-1/2 months, relatively well in my opinion. I have felt really good physically, well most days, and mentally...well again most days.

Yesterdays doctor visit went well....my white blood count is okay, but my platelet count was low, too low to get the full dose of treatment. He reduced it by 10%, so I got 300mg (instead of 330mg). That was disappointing. I really wanted this last treatment to be the full dose...to carry me through to whatever my next challenge will be. I need to be careful and notify my doctor of any bruising and bleeding. If it gets too bad, I will need a platelet transfusion. I get my Neulasta shot today. I go back in two weeks for another blood test and doctor visit. Within this next 2 weeks, however, I will have another MRI and pray the results continue to be in my favor. I asked about having a body scan just to make sure the cancer has not spread anywhere else in my body. Dr. Hu said that rarely does my type of cancer spread to anywhere but the brain. They have seen it spread to the spinal cord, but he has no reason to believe that would happen to me. I like that belief!! So we keep up the prayers everyone.

I find something to be happy about every single day. I am a 293 day survivor!!! Forever am I grateful for so many, many people praying for me and supporting me. Never, ever would I be able to do this on my own without God carrying me and you all being here with encouraging words. thoughts and prayers. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! There is no way I will ever be able to repay the blessings I've received.

Live this day one precious moment at a time.

+Peace,
Sandy

"Belated" Doctor Visit and 5th Treatment Update

I envision radiant health in my body this very moment. I feel stronger and more alive, renewed and energized.

Once again I am sorry for my delayed blog update, but I've been crazy busy. Busy is good, because it means that I am feeling good!

My last doctor appointment was on Monday, July 26th. All of my labs looked good so I was able to get a full dose of chemo this time. Then had a Neulasta shot on Tuesday, the 27th. I was really tired and achy, but that passed by the weekend.

Good news....I don't have to see the doctor again until August 23rd. If my labs continue to look good, I will have a full dose of chemo again. That will be my 6th and final treatment. How about that...it means that I will have made it through all 6 treatments without an allergic reaction. Life is good and God is gracious!!!

I constantly ask God to bless me with the strength to continue this battle that he has given me to fight. I thank him daily that he is letting me win!!!!

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish and it will be done for you.
--John 15:7

Blessings for a peaceful week,
Sandy

Doctor visit update

I am deeply grateful as I receive the blessings of answered prayer.

My last medical oncologist appointment was Tuesday, July 13th. Appointment went well, uneventful. My labs came back okay. Platelet count is coming up. WBC is up, (thank you Neulasta!), however I am still slightly anemic.

I saw my radiation oncologist on Thursday, July 15th for a 4 month follow-up. What a great guy...very spiritual and not afraid to show it. I like that in a doctor. He reviewed my MRI results and is very pleased with them. He checked my neurological reflexes, etc and says I'm doing awesome. I told him that I have 2 more treatments, but am a bit concerned about not doing anything after these treatments are done. He said, we aren't doing nothing, we have prayer and will continue to have prayer. How about that?! I said, it's the power of prayer that has made me an 8 month survivor so far. He said, you aren't just an 8 month survivor, you're a survivor every day! AMEN to that!! I go back to see him in October.

My next oncologist visit is Monday, July 26th and will have chemo the same day as long as my counts are okay. 5th treatment, just 1 more to go.

I know I'm sounding like a very broken record, but.....thanks again everyone for all of the prayers and support. Oh my goodness....I most definitely wouldn't have come this far without my huge circle of prayer partners. I'm amazed by every ones generous prayers for me. It's an awesome feeling...thank you for making me feel special.

Every day is a miracle filled with opportunities to give and receive.

Have a blessed day,
Sandy

4th Treatment and MRI Results

God gives the very best to those who leave the choices up to him!

Sorry for my delayed update....life can be crazy sometimes!!
I had my MRI on Friday, June 25th and my oncologist appointment on Tuesday, June 29th. The MRI results were good...no tumor regrowth! The small 'enhancement' at the tumor site that they saw in January and March seems to be a bit smaller as well. When it was first seen in January, the doctors weren't sure if the 'enhancement' was scar tissue or resistant tumor. Since it appears smaller, it could very well be resistant tumor, they just don't know. The only way to really know is surgery...not doing that right now. Still all in all, this is exciting news!

As far as my blood counts, everything is so, so. My platelets are low, which is a side effect of the Carboplatin, so the chemo I had on Wednesday, June 30th was a 10% less dose than my previous treatment. Reducing the dose was more preferable than not taking chemo for several weeks to try to bring my platelet count up. I also had a Neulasta (bone marrow stimulant) shot on Thursday to help increase my white blood cell count. I didn't feel as sick with this treatment, which I attribute to the lesser dose, plus I took more anti-nausea medicine.

Next oncologist appointment is Tuesday, July 13th. Next appointment with my radiation oncologist is Thursday, July 15th for a 4-month follow-up. I am anxious to hear what he has to say about the MRI results!!

Only 2 more treatments to go...mid July and then early August to finish. I would imagine I will have another MRI then.

I am feeling good and remain thankful for every day and all the prayers sent my way. The power of prayer is absolutely unbelievable...I am so blessed!!

Every day is a gift, not a given right!

Sandy

Quick update..June 24, 2010

God holds me head and shoulders above all who try to pull me down.
Psalms 27

Want to give a quick update....not much going on with me right now. I'm feeling good, and all seems to be going well. I met with my new doctor last week. I have a MRI tomorrow morning, Friday, June 25th. I should get the results at my next doctor visit on Tuesday, June 29th. I expect my next Chemo treatment to be on Wednesday, June 30th.

Pray that all goes well over the next week.
Thanks everyone, I'll be back in touch next week.

My trust in God grows ever stronger.

Have a great weekend everyone.
+ Peace
Sandy

Treatment #3

Make each day your Masterpiece!

I saw my oncologist on Thursday, June 3rd. My blood counts were low again, but she wanted me to go forward with chemo anyway. I went back on Friday morning and got the Neulasta shot to start stimulating my bone marrow to build my counts back up. For some reason, this treatment was pretty rough. I didn't feel well all weekend, although Saturday was better than Sunday. Sunday, I had body aches (side effect of the Neulasta) and was very nauseous (side effect of the Carboplatin). I'm finally starting to feel better today, but still taking one day at a time.

When I saw my doctor on Thursday, she didn't seem her normal self. She told me she had some bad news that she needed to talk to me about. Of course I started to panic...who wouldn't when their doctor starts a conversation that way? For a few seconds my mind flashed-back to the day my surgeon told me the tumor pathology results....Yikes...major panic!! Oh my gosh, Lord, you are really testing me, aren't you? Well, as it turns out, the news is that my doctor is leaving St. Louis to move back to her hometown in Ohio for family reasons. Phew....that's it?...It's not about me? Thank the Lord it's not about me!!

Of course, I'm not happy that she won't be my doctor, but as I told her...family comes first, she needs to take care of her family. I would absolutely do the same thing if I was faced with family issues that needed care.

I fully believe and trust that everything that happens, happens for a reason. I will find a new doctor that will forge ahead with me in my care. I will continue to come out on top and climb this mountain for as long as I need to. Many times shaking up the situation opens up new opportunities and new ways of looking at things. I'm considering this a new opportunity to fight this battle in new ways. I know we are winning and we will continue to win!
Thank you to everyone who is in this battle with me. You build me up and make me stronger everyday.

I bless my mind and body with thoughts of perfect health....I am one with God.

God's peace be with all of you today and everyday,

Sandy

Friday, May 21, 2010

Life is GOOD today!

It's been a fairly uneventful two weeks since my last post. I've felt pretty good, although I did come down with a cold that landed in my chest. I'm ramping up on Vitamin C and sinus rinse, so all that remains is a bit of a lingering cough. I haven't been able to get my walks in as much because of the rainy season we're in, but am trying to get out as much as possible. I am so looking forward to sunny weather...as I'm sure everyone is.

I saw my oncologist on Thursday morning. Blood work results came back very good. There are so many counts on that piece of paper from the lab, and I don't understand all of them, but I do know that my white blood counts are up to 2200. This means that the Neulasta (bone marrow stimulant) shot is doing it's job. It's been two weeks since my last chemo treatment, so if the counts were going to be low, they would be now. At this point, we don't expect them to drop. I am just slightly anemic, but not enough to be concerned.

My next blood work up and appointment is scheduled for June 3rd. If all is well, I will have treatment on that day as well. This will be treatment #3....leaving me with only 3 more to go. I would expect to have a MRI probably in June or July since that will be the halfway point in my treatment.

My doctor is so pleased with my results....it's about time!!! I haven't exactly been a textbook patient. I haven't reacted negatively (so far!) to the Carboplatin. I'm not on steroids, except with my treatment. (Doc told me she has many patients that can't come off of steroids at all...I'm feeling very lucky!) I'm strong neurologically, physically and mentally....well usually strong mentally. I've had a couple of meltdown moments recently. But everyone has their days...right? It's all just part of life and dealing with the crosses we have to bear.

It brings me to tears to realize just how blessed I am to have so many friends thinking of me, checking on me, praying for me. GOD has called me to carry this burden. I have accepted it and am faithfully doing what HE wants me to do. I am in HIS arms and HE carries me everyday.

I make my way through this experience bravely and courageously because I am not alone. I am wrapped in the blanket of God's love, lifted up and cared for.

Many Blessings to all,
Sandy

Thursday, May 6, 2010

"Thus far has the Lord helped us." Samuel 7:12

I had blood work this morning and the results were better than on Monday. The Neupogen shots worked to bring my blood counts up to the point that I was able to have chemo today.

I had a full dose of the Carboplatin. I came home and slept pretty much all day, but haven't had any other negative side effects at this point. I'm remaining optimistic that all will continue to go well. I go back for one more shot on Friday morning. This time I will get Neulasta, which is a longer lasting bone marrow stimulant that is supposed to keep my blood cell count from dropping too low.

My next doctor appointment is May, 20th. I'm looking forward to that appointment because I'm curious how the Neulasta will keep my blood counts stable.

Thank you for your continued gifts of prayers. You all are in my daily prayers as well. I am amazed everyday that I am so blessed.

Touch me with your hand Father, and use me to pass on your touch to others.

Peace,
Sandy

Week of Monday, May 3, 2010

Today is a new day, a day I choose to lay down my fear and stress, a day in which I needn't be worried or concerned.

So it's the normal drill...I had blood work and doctor appointment on Monday morning. I think I am beginning to wonder what normal really is?

My lab results showed that my white blood cell count continued to decline over this past week. Last week it was 940, this week it is 830. Unfortunately, I can not take chemotherapy when the white blood count is below 1000.

To work on that, I have to take Neupogen shots. Neupogen stimulates the bone marrow to generate red, white blood cells and platelets. Side effects of this drug are slight to severe bone pain and fever. I had my first shot yesterday, second shot today, and will have another shot on Wednesday. I'm feeling some moderate bone pain, so I'm taking Tylenol. Unfortunately, since I am asthmatic, I can not take ibuprofen or Advil. I'm praying the pain won't get any worse than it is now, but if it does, oh well...in my mind the benefits out weigh the pain! I can do this!

This drug is fairly quick acting, so Thursday I will have bloodwork again to check my numbers. If the stars are aligned and the moon is in the 2nd house, and of course.....if my counts are back up, I will have chemo on Thursday, full dose this time. If chemo happens, I will go back on Friday for a shot of Neulasta, which is a longer acting bone marrow stimulant to try to keep my counts up so I can stay on time with my treatments.

Thank you for keeping me in your prayers. Things could be worse. Fortunately I have God on my side and he is carrying me everyday!

Be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. 1 Chronicles 28:20

I will keep you posted. Enjoy your day!

Peace,
Sandy

Week of April 26th...

Worry looks around...sorry looks back...Faith looks up.

It's been a great two weeks. I've felt really good; I've worked every day and I've walked quite a bit. (many miles actually!!) Thank you, Lord, for allowing me the opportunity to have another day to experience life and to do your work!!

On Monday morning, 4/26, I had blood work and saw Dr. Partridge (oncology doctor). The lab results showed that my white blood count is a little low, so I was unable to have chemotherapy that day. (Although, I didn't realize I was supposed to have it until I got there...hmm!) Anyway, she is not overly concerned because the count is just slightly below what they want it to be. The low count is a direct side effect from the Carboplatin. She wants to see me next week for another blood work up. If my WBC is high enough I will have my chemo treatment on Monday, 5/3. If it's not, I will probably still have treatment, but then on Tuesday I would have to go in for a shot of Neupogen, which will stimulate white blood cell production. I'm not sure how often these shots are given, but I imagine I will find out soon enough. The Neupogen has a side effect of bone pain from slight to severe. We've all learned how I seem to react to medications....alright...well we're just not going there!!!

I will post a blog again next week after treatment.

"Do not fear, I am a wall of protection around you." GOD

Peace and many blessings and prayers,

Sandy

Events of the Last Two Weeks...

Today is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. I'm not worried about tomorrow, I'm trusting in what you say...Today is the day!

These last two weeks have been awesome. I have felt so good and so alive. The weather has turned the corner to warm days, cool nights and I am blessed everyday that I wake up and have another day to live life. Can it get any better than that....I think not!

Since I haven't blogged since March 29th, allow me to share what has been going on since then.

Monday, March 29th was a new chemotherapy day. It was a day that gave me the ultimate 'high' because of my MRI news. All week long, I've been feeling so good and even walked to and from work a few days (only a mile each way) when the weather cooperated.

Easter Sunday, April 4th was an awesome day. A little background...a week after my diagnosis (Nov. '09), we began attending a wonderful church called 'The Gathering". Our Easter service was at The Pageant in the University City loop. You could just feel God's presence all around you. The power and the spirit filled the venue and was so amazing. Our pastor, Matt Miofsky, is a gifted speaker and delivered a message that was very inspiring...."We are made for life, so we need to start living it." How much more profound can you get! It's a great message for us all to take in and believe.

A few months ago, Matt asked me to sit down with him and share my 'healing journey" story so that he could use it for a sermon about "Living with the End in Mind". A tough subject to talk about. After our conversation, he must have found something worthwhile, because he asked me if I would consider telling my story again, but this time with a video camera rolling so that it could be shared on Easter Sunday. How could I not say yes, when God has given me such a powerful gift in learning how to live my life for every day and to live in trust not in fear of him of what might happen. Matt's sermon was very powerful and I'm am so thankful to have been part of a message that shared how we are made for life!

Last week, I continued to feel really good. Again, I walked to and from work several days as my schedule and the weather permitted. I also saw my radiation oncologist on Thursday. My visit went well and Dr. Stroud is very pleased with the MRI results. We talked about some slight tingling I have been feeling in my tongue over the last few days. His thought at the time could be one of three things causing this sympton....resistant tumor, scar tissue or rejuvination of the nerves after all of the radiation I've been through. If it is by chance resistant tumor, it has remained unchanged since my January MRI. Dr. Stroud thinks that this is something that I shouldn't lose any sleep over...and I can tell you...I'm not!

I saw my medical oncologist today. Blood work is still good and all my neurological signs are good. Her and Dr. Stroud consulted and concluded that they think the tingling in my tongue is most likely a side effect of the Carboplatin. I'm going with that and still won't lose any sleep over it. I took my second round of infusion of Carboplatin this morning. Still all is going well....no hives, no adverse reaction right now. I did come home and went to bed. They pump me with Benadryl which just knocks me out. But I'm back to work tomorrow and looking forward to being productive for the rest of the week.

Well, these are the events of the last 2 weeks. Things are going so well and I am so pumped about everything. I for sure wouldn't be able to do any of this with out all of the prayers and support from everyone. Thank you all so much for the relentless prayers and all continues to go well. God is hearing our prayers and answering our faithfuness with positive results.....woohoo!!!

This is a life worth living and let's give it all we got!

Peace and love,
Sandy

New Chemo Drug Today

I woke up this morning so thankful for this beautiful, sunny day. I am so blessed.

I went to St. John's this morning for my first infusion of chemo. They gave me an anti-nausea drug, Decadron (a steroid), Benadryl and then the Carboplatin. So far, no hives, no nausea, just tired.....but all in all, I think it went well. I came home and slept most of the day. The nurses are still having a problem with my veins rolling when they try to insert the IV. I've always had really good veins, but this past week has been a challenge for them. My arms are starting to look like I'm a drug addict. Although, I guess in a way, I kind of am!

My oncologist came by the treatment room this morning and gave us the results of the MRI done last Wednesday. We have some good news to share!! I have NO tumor regrowth in the original tumor site nor do they see any other abnormalities in other parts of my brain.

Alleluia...Praise God!!! Our prayers are being answered everyone!! We are winning this battle and God is rewarding us for our courage and strength and placing our faith and trust in him. Thank you all, my "prayer warriors" once again, for fighting this battle with me. I cannot do this alone and you all lifting me up to the Lord has given me strength and comfort. Each of you are my inspiration!!

My next chemo treatment should be April 13th. I see my onologist on Monday, April 5. Hopefully my blood counts will continue to remain stable. My followup radiation oncologist appointment is April 8th, so we will see what he has to say. I'm sure he will be pleased with the results of the MRI.

I can't help but wonder if something good is coming out of the challenges I faced with the Temodar. I asked the nurse today during my treatment what I should do with the leftover Temodar, since I will for sure not take this drug again. I wasn't sure if there are mandatory disposal rules for chemotherapy drugs. She told me that I could bring in any unused drugs and they will give it those people who are struggling to afford the cost of chemotherapy. It's incredibly expensive and I am so fortunate to have medical insurance. It makes me feel good to to know that I can help someone who cannot normally afford the exorbitant cost of this cancer care.

This journey is teaching me so much. I know this sounds cliche, but everything does happen for a reason and God has not given me more than I can handle, because I am living it everyday. Thank God!

Peace and love,
Sandy

Off to buy a wig today..

I rise out of the old and into the new.

I've had two good days of solid rest and it has helped me tremendously. Now that I've finally gotten out of bed and looked in the mirror...oh my...I need some hair!

As with everything on this journey, I've done nothing with in the ordinary. Hair loss occurs in a very small percentage of patients who take Temodar. Of course...I fall into that small percentage! Anyhow...Carboplatin, the chemo drug I start taking Monday, causes hair loss too. SO......wig shopping today! No....folks.....I'm not coming home 'platinum blonde'!

The sun is shining, thank you Lord for another beautiful day!

I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might. Isaiah 12:2

Peace,
Sandy

These last few days have been quite challenging...read on..

The Lord said to him, "Peace be to you; do not fear."--Judges 6:23

and this is how my story continues......

Last Friday, 3/19 I woke up sick to my stomach. The couple of days before that I was beginning to feel pretty good, so I wondered where this nausea was coming from. I'm just about ready to leave for work, it's 6:45am and I decide to take a Zofran (anti-nausea drug) to help my stomach. I took it and left for work. By about 10:45am, I'm sitting at my desk and start getting really cold. I look in the mirror and my face is tomato red, I look at my arms, they are red and splotchy, I look at my stomach and my legs, the same thing. Obviously, my first thought is crap, hives again, will this ever end!!! Then all of sudden, I thought again...HIVES! I have HIVES...wait...it's got to be the Zofran I'm allergic to after all.....not the Temodar! OMG...you can't even imagine how crazy happy I was. I call my oncologist, I tell her what happened and we agree, as rare as this type of reaction to Zofran is, this has to be my culprit. I confirm my appointment with her for Monday morning and we decide I will try taking my next regimen of treatment starting Monday, 3/22 by capsule form instead of IV, but not take Zofran prior to my dose. Over the weekend, the hives disappeared and all was right with the world.

Or so I thought!

Monday morning, 3/22 I go out to the Cancer Center at St. John's, get my labwork done and see Dr. Partridge for my 8am visit. We talk more about the Zofran reaction and we agree to be cautiously optimistic as we move forward with taking the Temodar by capsule. I leave her office with a new anti-nausea perscription just in case I need it. We agreed that I would try taking the Temodar without taking an anti-nausea pill so that we can officially rule out the Temodar and/or the dye in the capsule. Nervously, at 8:46am I take my 225mg of Temodar, by 9:06am I begin to tingle, itch and burn. I grab an Allegra pill and take it. After about 15 minutes, the Allegra seems to help...somewhat, but still red and itchy. I decided to lay down to sleep to attempt to ward off potential nausea. I napped for awhile then woke up vomiting and I have never been so cold in my life. I was buried under 2 electric blankets set on high, 3 regular blankets and a hot field corn bag and still could not get warm. This kept up for what seemed liked forever. At 12:20, my daugher Alison talked to my sister,Nurse Tracy and told her that I was turning beat red and purple, freezing and vomiting. Tracy called my doctor and was told that I should go to the emergency room right away. I was getting weaker and weaker, so we called 911....it's a good thing we did.

By the time I got to the emergency room, I was running a 103.5 fever (no wonder I was so cold!), my pulse was 120 and my blood pressure was 88/56 and my hands, feet and lips were deep purple....not a pretty sight and quite a dangerous, life threatening situation. When I was finally stabilized, I was moved to ICU Monday evening. I stayed in ICU until Tuesday afternoon and was moved to a room on the Oncology floor. This morning, I had a MRI to determine how things look in my head with the radiation and chemo treatments I've had so far. I was released from the hospital late this morning, but I am totally drained and spent. There is no possible way to sleep in a hospital, not to mention being drained from the trauma I just endured.

After much conversation with her collegues, my allergist and other oncologists from WashU and Duke, my oncologist feels that it is just too risky and way too dangerous to use Temodar anymore without causing life-threatening reactions. Of course I totally agree that we don't want to take that risk. After more discussion, there are some other drugs we can try.

So on Monday, 3/29, I will start a chemo drug called "Carboplatin". It can only be administered through infusion and can be taken once a month at full dose strength or twice a month with the full dose split into equal halves and taken 15 days between doses. I have opted to take the twice a month regimen to ensure that I will be able to tolerate the drug before I move to the once a month full strength dose. Please keep the prayers coming as I move on to try "Carboplatin" and pray that it will be a drug I can tolerate.

It's been quite an emotional and draining week and I want to thank everyone for your continued prayers and support. I know and trust the Lord safely and confidently carried me this week as I endured this very serious health situation. I believe He brought me through this to face the additional challenges and work he still has for me to do.

Jesus turned around and when he saw her he said, "Daughter, be encouraged, your faith has made you well." And the woman was healed at that moment. Matthew 9:22

As Easter approaches, let us pray God renews our strength.

Peace and love to all,
Sandy

What the heck am I allergic too??

The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.

I am 1-1/2 weeks past the end of my weekly chemo treatment and I am still dealing with these crazy hives....they have just plain worn me out. They seem to come and go. One minute I'm hive free, the next minute my skin is turning rosey red, I start running a fever, and I get the chills. Then they go away. I continue this pattern all day long, Oh Brother!! At least I am no longer a swollen, itchy mess, so that's a blessing.

I saw my allergy doctor last week to talk with him about the possibility of being allergic to Blue Dye #2, which is in the capsule packaging of one of my pills. Unfortunately, there are no skin tests for dyes. Ok...let's keep looking....

Next, I contacted Shering-Plough, to find out if they make Temodar in a dye-free capsule or in tablet form. The answer to those questions were "No" and "No". So, I continue on with my process of elimination....

I saw my Medical Oncologist yesterday, I reviewed with her the research that I've done in trying to determine the root cause. This is the plan of action for my next treatment week which begins on Monday, March 22nd...

I am going to have the Temodar administered through Infusion at the same dosage level (225mg) as the capsules. I will go to St. John's everyday for 5 days, let them stick me with an IV and watch it drip for 90 minutes. WooHoo!! We should know soon enough if I am allergic to the drug or not. (When I took the capsules, I broke out with hives no more than 15 minutes after swallowing the pills.) Obviously, if I don't break out in hives, it's the dye. If I do, it's the Temodar. Please pray, it's the dye!!

I guess for me, March really came in like a Lion!! Let's pray that as Spring arrives and I start my next treatment, March goes out like a Lamb!!

Have a great week every one. Thank you for all the prayers and kind thoughts sent my way.

Through faith I overcome every limitation. I know that God's power in me is greater than any situation I may have to meet or overcome; God is greater than any condition or circumstance.

I walk by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

Until next time, many blessings.....
Sandy

Weekly Treatment started Monday, February 22, 2010

I can do all things through him who strengthens me....Philippians 4:13

This has been a rough week for me. My weekly treatment began on Monday, 02/22. My hopes of not developing hives were dashed by immediately breaking out into hives. Grrrrr.... Why am I not surprised!! I would give anything to be textbook!!

Oh well...what's a cancer survivor to do???....I powered through ya'all! I made it through this week, a little worn for the the wear, but made it through nonetheless. I was in bed for a couple of days, had no energy to do anything but sleep. God kept telling me to stay strong and keep the faith, because he will bring me through this....and here I am...on the other side of treatment week. Thank God!!

My appointment with the medical oncologist was Monday, 2/22. All of my blood labs are looking good and my reflexes and neurological signs are good as well. I have no recurring symptoms so we continue down the chemo path of 5 days on/15 days off. I will see the doctor every two weeks for blood work and symptom monitoring. I will probably have a MRI and CT scans near the end of March or early April.

I have been off steroids since Tuesday, 2/23....ya gotta know I'm totally thankful for that!!! Just keep praying that I won't have to go back on them...at least anytime soon.

I will start my next round of chemo on March 22nd. I'm not sure yet if we will try an IV form of Temodar or go back to the capsule form. In the meantime though, we need to find out what is causing these hives, is it the drug itself or the capsule packaging?

The previous two weeks I had felt awesome. I know it was because of all the prayers of strength and love you are all sending my way....I am looking forward to feeling that way again...so please keep them coming.

But those that hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Have a great week everyone. Every day brings us closer to Spring!!

Sandy

SRS Treatments - Complete!!

I will trust and I will not be afraid, for the Lord my God is my strength and my might. Isaiah 12:2

Phase 2 treatment is now complete...YAY! Let me again say...YAY!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you everyone for your prayers, your ramped up prayers, your silent and verbal support, your emails and the cards and just quite simply just for everything!!! I have the best support system I could ever ask for and I feel like I am the luckiest women in the world. As of today, it's been 3 months since my brain tumor surgery...Happy Anniversary to me!!...3 month survivor and I AM LIVING STRONG!!!

My hair is definitely thin on the left side and the back crown of my head. I am really having to use the 'comb over do' now. But hey, it's only hair and I am excited and planning on watching it grow back. And actually, it can take as long as it wants to grow back, because I plan on watching it everyday for a long, long time!!! ;-D.

My Healing Journey continues like this:

- Monday, 2/8: Bloodwork and appointment with my medical oncologist. Hopefully she will say that I can begin weaning off the steriods. I am most excited about this possibilty especially since I've been on them for 3 months. So far I have not had any neurological sympton recurrence, so as you can imagine, this will be my first question to her as she walks in the door!!! Off steriods..PLEASE????
- Monday, 2/22: Begin next round of chemotherapy. 1 week on chemo, 3 weeks off. This will continue for awhile...awhile being ??. I am a bit nervous about this because of the 'hives' reaction from the last round of treatment. I really don't want to have chemo by infusion, so I hopefully, since I will only be on the drugs for 5 days, I will 'power' through as I did before.
- Thursday, 4/8: Appointment with my radiation oncologist for 2 month followup after SRS treatments.

I am unsure right now when my next MRI or CT scans will be. The doctors caution on doing these too early after radiation treatments because the results could be misleading due to necrosis, brain swelling, etc. and that could just bring about unnecessary worry and discouragement. Not going to go down that road too soon.

I'm working everyday at keeping my spirits up and my faith strong. God has put me in this situation for a reason and I trust that he is in control as he continues to carry me down this road. Thank you again for everyone traveling with me, there is definitley fulfillment and safety in numbers.

God is with me and around me. I am safe where ever I go.

I will blog again soon...

Blessings and Peace to all,
Sandy

2 SRS Treatments Complete - 2 more to go!

No matter what I want to accomplish, I never go through it alone.

Let me first say....the folks at St. John’s Mercy are absolutely wonderful. The care and compassion of these fine people in the Cancer Center has been unbelievably awesome. Couldn't ask for kinder people.

I was a bit on the nervous side as I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this whole SRS treatment. I told myself....silly girl, it really is no different than my daily radiation treatments, right? Well maybe....except the treatment is longer with multipe, high-dose, extremely focalized beams of radiation to my head, being sedated due to the length of treatment and the need to be completely immobile and I will be more tired after the treatment. Hmmm...are those really good reasons to be nervous?? Ya, honestly...in my mind..a little bit.

I do think my nerves are more from the standpoint of the possible 'rare' long term side effects of this treatment. Alright...'possible' long term side effects....they're just that...'possible', potentially, meaning they may not happen, also identified as 'rare'. If they do occur, they could be potentially permanent, but they are still identified as 'rare'. Then I come back to, I never do anything by the book, so could it be the case with this?

So, I stop myself right here and I talk myself out of going down this negative, 'what if' road. I choose to be positive, confident and faithful that the benefits of this treatment outweigh the 'rare, possible' side effects that may not happen. I am uplifted by the fact that God will not take me anywhere he thinks I can't handle or cope.

I have experienced more fatigue with the first 2 SRS treatments. Probably partly due to the sedation and partly due to the high doses of radiation. After treatment, I've gone home and slept, which is probably what I've needed most.

So...2 treatments down, 2 more to go...Monday, 2/1 and Wednesday, 2/3. Please keep me in your prayers as I begin and end this week of Phase 2.

Peace will be ours when we narrow our focus and saturate our minds with truth and trust.

Have a blessed and peaceful week..
Sandy

Please ramp up the prayers!!

Greetings to all my Prayer soldiers….

The grace of God sustains me in every moment.

My stereotactic radiosurgery procedures (SRS) begin this week. I will have 4 procedures over the next two weeks, Tuesday, 1/26, Thursday, 1/28 and Monday, 2/1, Wednesday, 2/3. I am unsure right now as to what to expect or how I will feel after each treatment, but will post a blog after Tuesday’s treatment to let everyone know how it went and what I experienced. All I know is that I requested to be sedated, because there is no way I can lay still and immobilized for any extended length of time.

I would greatly appreciate the “ramped up” prayers. They will most certainly carry me through these next 4 treatments.

As God's grace is demonstrated, I give thanks for the opportunities that come my way and know that each is a gift. I am aware of the grace of God surrounding and sustaining me. What a powerful way to live!

Blessings and peace to all,
Sandy

Phase 1 Treatment - Complete!!!

“I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me.” Philipians 4:13

You better believe I can.… and I have made it through the last 33 days….Praise our awesome GOD because he has strengthened me!!! I’m sure you all have thought this has gone by fast. As for me….some days it has and some days it hasn’t. But, I have prevailed and most definitely will continue to do so with the love, support and encouragement of all my ‘prayer soldiers’!!

Here’s a rundown of my events over the last week and half:

• I had a CT scan and MRI in preparation for the stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The results showed a small (4mm in size) enhancement. At this point, the doctor is unsure if it is tumor growth or scar tissue. If it’s tumor growth, then the SRS will assist in blasting it. If it’s scar tissue, than…it is what it is. I’ve had no recurring symptoms, so I refuse to be worried about it!!! My physical and neurological signs are all excellent. I continue to be strong and ‘in good health’. Most importantly, I work hard every day to keep my attitude positive and my faith strong, which keeps me going. When I fall, (which to tell you the truth is usually on a daily basis), I refocus on the goal and God picks me up again. I also remember this….”Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall”. - Confucious
• Blood test results for this week show that I am no longer anemic..YAY! My oncologist concurs that the Dapsone (antibiotic) was eating up my red blood cells. This is no longer an issue…so all is good there. Had my Thyroid checked and it’s normal. All other blood counts are stable and look good. Do I hear another YAY?!?!
• The biggest issue over this last week and half has been the severe case of hives over my entire body…..swollen, red, itchy, tinglely, just awful and miserable and ‘very attractive’….NOT! More than likely it is the Temodar, which is just what we didn’t want it to be. The last thing I wanted to do was stop chemotherapy early and not finish the complete treatment….not an option in my opinion and fortunately, not in the doctors’ opinion either. I powered though by using Allegra, Zantac, continued the steroids and a lot of prayer. Can I ever do anything by the book….why the hell not?? We actually don’t really know if it’s the Temodar I’m allergic to or the capsule packaging that may have some kind of dye that I reacted to. Now that I’m done with this phase of treatment, my body will have a chance to settle down before we start again.

Here’s what’s up next ???:

• At this point, I am scheduled for the SRS over 4/5 treatments beginning Tuesday, January 26th. The length of each treatment could span anywhere from 1-4 hours. I’ll find out the schedule this week. Since it’s definitely a more intense and focalized radiation treatment, I will be even more immobilized than with the daily treatments. I’m thinking they will most likely need to sedate me for these….please!
• After the SRS treatments, I should be able to begin the weaning process off the steroids. Can you hear me shouting for joy on this one…can’t flippin’ wait for this!!
• My next round of chemotherapy will begin February 22nd. The dose will be higher, since this regimen will be 1 week on chemo, 3 weeks off. We will have to wait and see how I react to the Temodar for this phase. If by chance I start in with hives again, we may need to go with IV form instead of pill form. Since it is only 5 consecutive days of treatment, I will need to ‘power’ through again. I will do whatever I have to do to make it work!

Thanks everyone for all the prayers. Please keep them coming. I can feel them all around me…they are totally working.

Heal the past. Live the present. Dream the future!!!

Many blessings to all,
Sandy

5th Week of Phase 1 Treatment - Complete

The promise of an answered prayer is not a blank check, but an invitation to dependence on God for success in mission.

Scratch off Week 5 on the calendar...I can guarantee you that I am!! 7 more daily radiation treatments. 10 more days of chemotherapy.

This week has brought a few challenges, but hey, isn't that way it goes. I've broken out in hives and been running a slight fever since last Sunday. Not sure the cause, perhaps a reaction to the antibiotics I was taking, but have been off of them for over a week. I'm praying it is not the Temodar (chemotherapy drug) causing this reaction, because it will be something I will have to live with for the time being. The process of elimination is a slow one. In the meantime, Benadryl!

I am still anemic, however stable with that. Meaning, my hemoglobin count has not changed in the last 2 weeks. That's good. The doctor is pretty certain that the cause of my anemia was the antibiotic, Dapsone, which I stopped taking on 12/31. Hopefully, next week's blood work results show an improvement in this area.

Alright...the timeline for the coming week:

• 7am daily radiation,


• On Tuesday, I have a CT Scan and a MRI to begin to map out a plan for a procedure I am having on January 26th called stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). This is a non-invasive procedure that delivers high dose beams of radiation focused on the tumor site that will distort the DNA of the tumor cells. The cells then lose their ability to reproduce and retain fluid. My radiation oncologist believes I'm a good candidate for this procedure and it will be an added boost of treatment to the tumor site. I'm all in favor of that!!


• See my doctors on Wednesday and Thursday...as usual.

I reach a milestone on Sunday, January 10th...I turn "50"!! Yikes!! For those of you that know me well...you know I have always dreaded my birthdays....they have always been difficut for me. I have just never wanted to get older. BUT...this year is different!! It's not the age, it's the attitude! Age is only a number!! I intend, with God carrying me, to see many more birthdays in the years to come, because I am not over-the-hill yet, baby!!

As I close this post, I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone who have brought meals, sent out words of encouragement through cards, emails, phone calls and posted comments on this blog and most importantly, for your prayers. I continue to be uplifted and inspired with your support. I feel the prayers working...please keep it up!

Thank God for every day, don't take it for granted, for each one is truly a gift.

Stay warm on this wonderful day!

Sandy

4th Week of Phase 1 Treatment - Complete

Hope is contagious!!

Another week down...This phase is 64% complete!! I met with my Radiation Oncologist on Thursday and found out that I only have 12 more radiation treatments to go...I was thinking I had 15!! The appointment calendar I was given had me scheduled through January 22nd. But apparently, this is a tentative schedule that takes into account any missed visits and so my appointment time and the radiation machine would be reserved for me to make up any needed treatments. My last radiation treatment in this phase will be Tuesday, January 19th. WooHoo!!! As you can imagine...I walked out of there Thursday morning very happy...partly because I may be able to begin weaning off the steroids sooner than I thought and also because of only 12 more 'daily' trips out to St. John's

I met with my Medical Oncologist this week as well. My blood work showed I'm anemic. This is more than likely a side effect of the antibiotic I'm taking to prevent pneumonia. The doc took me off of that antibiotic and put me on Folic Acid....so we will see what next weeks lab results show. I'm trusting my red blood cell count goes up!

My hair is continuing to thin more in the targeted radiation spots. Grrr!!! Don't need a wig or hat yet, so I'm dealing with it...some days better than others...but dealing with it nonetheless. I continue to be really, really tired...(certainly the side effects of the radiation, chemo and now anemia). I am resting as much as I can....well to be honest, as much as I am willing to let myself rest!! My prayers for continued strength to endure are being answered.

As always, I am forever grateful and in awe of the generous prayers and support of each and every one of you. Please know that my daily prayers thank and praise God for you and I ask Him to protect and bless you and your loved ones.
2010 is going to be our year everyone!!! I am living in trust that God will bring about the miracle of total healing that we are asking and praying for. HE is a good and gracious God and HE has transformed my life into living in trust, not in fear of him. With God, all things are possible.

Whatever challenge arises in my life, my faith in God sees me through. I am faith in action!

My sites are set on Week 5...join me won't you?!?!?!

Happy New Year!
Sandy